Success for Al Thika at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge

Once again, the Al Thika branded Nissan Patrol of Newtrix Racing was prominent at the annual Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, which took place in the Liwa region from 3rd-7th April. The ADDC is the second round in the FIA World Cross Country Rally Championship, in which Ian Barker competed for the 9th time alongside his co-driver Sheila Barker. They encountered various problems during the first three days, the worst of which was a broken half-shaft which left them without 4-wheel drive on day 2. However, they were able to achieve creditable 16th and 18th place finishes on the final two days, for an overall 23rd place finish. 56 cars and buggies started, but such are the demands of this challenge that only 40 vehicles reached the finish line.